Lake Manapouri area

Introduction

Nestled in amongst Fiordland mountains, Lake Manapouri and surrounds offer stunning scenery and numerous activities to enjoy. It is a great spot for families, and those who love boating, day walks and tramping a bit off the beaten track.

Highlights

Lake Manapouri provides a peaceful, beautiful setting for a visit to Fiordland National Park. From the Manapouri township you can access Doubtful Sound (via West Arm and Wilmot Pass).

The famous Kepler Track Great Walk is close by too, and has excellent day walk options for families.

Surrounding the lake are the Kepler Mountains, Turret Range and the Hunter Mountains. Across the lake is access to Doubtful Sound via West Arm and Wilmot Pass.

Fans of the Lord of the Rings film trilogy can visit local spots that featured in the films, including the Waiau River as the ‘River Anduin’, and the Kepler Mire as the ‘Dead Marshes’ - see Lord of the Rings locations.

Place overview

Activities

Boating

Fishing

Kayaking and canoeing

Swimming

Walking and tramping

Facilities

Toilets

Stop the spread of didymo and other freshwater pests.

Remember to Check, Clean, Dry all items before entering, and when moving between, waterways.

About this place

Nature and conservation

Getting there

Know before you go

Lake Manapouri can quickly become rough and choppy, particularly in the afternoons, take this into account when planning activities.

Didymo has been found along the edges of Lake Manapouri. You must check, clean, dry all gear before leaving the lake edge and moving into lake tributaries or other waterways. Watercraft are encouraged not to enter tributary rivers as they may spread didymo into these pristine rivers.